Odisha is the land of myths and legends; exotic and unexplored. This tour explores these aspects in this state of India that is endorsed by its ancient people who continue to inhabit their dwelling places in remote areas in deep forests and hilly interiors to keep their tribal traditions alive.
We begin this tour by visiting Bhubaneswar, the city of temples, where as many as 1000 temples existed at one point of time. In the first part of our trip we visit the rural part of Odisha to see the local tribes. Odisha has as many as 62 tribes that constitute an impressive 24 percent of the total population of the state. Their economy here is based on food gathering, hunting and fishing, the activities that bind them to this forest region. The most primitive groups of Tribes which we see are Kutia Kondhs, Dongria Kondhs and Bondas. Men and women come down from the mountains with different kinds of fruits and livestock to sell in the weekly. After visiting their villages we can also watch their interaction with other communities in these weekly markets. Bondas live in the remote hills and keep themselves isolated. They are normally seen only when they come to at the local. Our visit must be timed to coincide with the weekly market day on Thursday.
We also visit the spectacular temples of Jagannath at Puri and Sun temple at Konark with very beautiful and intricate carvings. Later we reach Bhubaneswar from where we fly back in Kolkata, the city of joy which has a fascinating history that highlights its rich culture and literary flavors. The city survived even in the British era with a grace that can be seen even now. It’s a happening place where activities like fine arts, music, dance, theatre and writing continue to flourish.
Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
Arrive in Kolkata (Thursday) Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore this cultural hub of India, or relax in the hotel. Overnight Hotel
Kolkata – Bhubaneswar (By Flight) (Friday) Transfer to airport for flight to Bhubaneswar. Later visit Bhubaneswar Lingraj Temple, holy Bindu Sarovar and Kedareshwar Temple. Overnight Hotel
Bhubaneswar – Lalitagiri – Khandagiri – Udayagiri – Bhubaneswar (Saturday) Visit architectural heirloom of Lalitagiri, and Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves. Later return to the hotel in Bhubaneswar. Overnight Hotel
Bhubaneswar – Gopalpur (Sunday) This morning drive to Gopalpur. In the afternoon visit a gorgeous temple devoted to Lord Krishna in this dazzling town. Evening can be spent on the beach. Overnight Hotel
Gopalpur – Rayagada (Monday) Drive to Raygada. On way visit Langia Soura. Later visit Hathipathar, an elephant-shaped rock and the attractive Kutia Kondh Tribe market. Overnight Hotel
Rayagada (Tuesday) Full-day sightseeing programme. Visit Minajhola and Manikeshwar Temple at Padampur; meet tribals. Overnight Hotel
Rayagada – Jeypore (Wednesday) Drive to Jeypore and check-in. Later visit Kali and Neelkantheswara temples. Optional visit to Jeypore Fort. Overnight Hotel
Jeypore – Onukudelli – Jeypore (Thursday) Visit Onukudelli and markets of Bonda, Gadaba and Didayee tribes. Return to Jeypore. Overnight Hotel
Jeypore – Taptapani (Friday) Drive to Taptapani – a hot-water spring; en route visit some of the other tribal communities. Later transfer to hotel for check in. Rest of the day free. Overnight Hotel
Taptapani – Chilka Lake – Puri (Saturday) Enjoy beautiful surrounding of Taptapani. Later drive to Puri; en-route visit typical South Odishan Villages, Chilka Lake. Overnight Hotel
Excursion to Konark (Sunday) Morning, visit Jagannath temple; afternoon excursion to Konark Sun Temple. Early evening drive back to Puri’s soothing beaches. Overnight Hotel
Puri – Bhubaneswar (Monday) Morning is free to relax on the beach. Afternoon drive back to Bhubaneswar. Evening free to explore the city. Overnight Hotel
Bhubaneswar – Kolkata (By Flight) (Tuesday) Morning transfer to the airport to board our flight for Kolkata. After check-in visit Victoria Memorial, Episcopal Church, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Paresnath Jain Temple, Kali Temple and Botanical Garden. Overnight Hotel
Departure (Wednesday) Transfer to the airport to board the flight for Kolkata in order to catch flight back to respective destinations.
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
Suitable for families with young children
Highest Point (Max altitude)
Fitness Grade
Fairly easy 5-6 hours of activity per day. May include some uphill sections, reasonable fitness recommended.
With a dedicated focus on active, experiential tours and exciting new destinations, ACTIVE INDIA specialises in active, outdoor adventures, cultural discovery and wildlife tours across India for families, small groups and independent travellers.
Enjoy complete flexibility in planning and booking your tours with Active India for a truly personalised India holiday that fits your budget and requirements.
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